FSU football: Three positives to focus on heading into Orange Bowl for the Noles

NEW YEAR'S SIX BOWL OPPORTUNITY

While I understand the frustration of not making an appearance in the College Football Playoff, it is also worth mentioning how thankful we have to be as fans to see this Florida State football team appear in a major bowl game after, just two years ago, being defeated by FCS Jacksonville State at home in last-second fashion.

It is marvelous to see where this program has progressed in terms of growth and development under the guidance of head football coach Mike Norvell and staff. While I know a certain of the fan base was clamoring for the "Fire Norvell" statements, it was great to see Director of Athletics Michael Alford exude so much confidence in Norvell as the head man for the university.

I realize that the opt-outs, whether it be from the transfer portal or declaration of the 2024 NFL Draft, have essentially ruined the "competitiveness of the contest. However, for the players who are participating and the fans who are watching, this has to be somewhat of a bittersweet moment as the Seminoles attempt to return to their prominent days of glory.

Overall, no matter how the outcome goes on Saturday, things are trending in a positive direction in Tallahassee again.